Once you’re ready to get out there independently, don’t forget the fundamental skills of planning your route, checking the weather forecast, taking appropriate clothing and knowing how to use a map and compass. Also remember to take a headtorch even in summer. Novice walkers (and experienced ones too!) can often get caught out after dark, and a working torch will be essential to help you find your way off the hill.

As with any sport, there is an element of risk – you need to take responsibility for your involvement and read the BMC’s participation statement.

Of course there’s one thing with which the BMC can’t help you – those busy times when you just can’t get to the hills in the first place. Even if not near to any uplands, however, a bit of brisk country walking will still develop your fitness and sure footedness for when a free weekend arrives.

Don't want to miss out on the climbing competition action? Whether you're a competitor, spectator or volunteer, sign up to the climbing calendar mailing list to get reminders for comp registrations, and start times here.

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YOUTH & EQUITY

The British Mountaineering Council (BMC) is the representative body that exists
to protect the freedoms and promote the interests of climbers, hill walkers and
mountaineers, including ski-mountaineers. The BMC recognises that climbing, hill
walking and mountaineering are activities with a danger of personal injury or death.
Participants in these activities should be aware of and accept these risks and be
responsible for their own actions.